Over the Fourth of July weekend, deadly flash floods swept across Texas — and with them came stories of heartbreak and heroism. One of the most powerful was that of 27-year-old Julian Ryan.

In the early morning hours in Ingram, Texas, Julian was home with his fiancée Christina Wilson, their two young children, and his mother when water suddenly began pouring into their trailer. Within minutes, it was flooding fast.

Without hesitation, Julian punched through a window to help his family escape to the roof. But the act severed a major artery in his arm. Bleeding heavily, he helped them all climb to safety.

By 6 a.m., Julian was gone.

“He looked at me and the kids, and said, ‘Sorry I’m not going to make it. I love y’all,’” Christina shared through tears.

Julian’s selfless act saved everyone — Christina, the children, and his mother. But the price was his life.

“He gave everything so we could live,” Christina said. His mother called him “the hero of this story.”

Julian was one of at least 82 victims of the floods. Texas saw a month’s worth of rain fall in just hours, with rivers rising more than 26 feet. Kerr County, where Julian lived, was one of the worst hit.

Rescue efforts across the state were massive. U.S. Coast Guard swimmer Scott Ruskin alone saved 165 people. Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency and promised full support, while President Trump called it a “terrible thing.”

Julian’s family is now pushing for better flood warning systems, like sirens, to prevent future tragedies. “He shouldn’t have had to die,” Christina said. “But he saved us.”

A GoFundMe to support the family has raised over $88,000 — a sign that Julian’s sacrifice has touched thousands. He may not have worn a uniform or cape, but Julian Ryan was, without question, a hero. 💔